CT Enterography

What is a CT Enterography?

CT Enterography is a CT exam primarily used to image the small bowel and to a lesser extent, the large bowel. It is performed to detect Crohn’s disease and assess its extent, if present. Other small bowel disorders can also be evaluated. If an abnormality is detected, important information such as the type, location and severity can be further characterized.

How should I prepare for my exam?

You are required to have a clear liquid diet for 12 hours prior to your exam.

Approved clear liquids include:

Water

Clear broth / bouillon

Coffee or tea without milk or non-dairy creamer

Gatorade®

Pedialyte®

Kool-Aid® or other fruit-flavored drinks

Powdered drinks (Crystal Light®)

Strained fruit juices (no orange juice)

Jell-o®

Popsicles®

Hard candy

Arrive 1 hour and 15 minutes prior to your exam time to drink special contrast material in timed intervals.

Let us know about any of the following:

Allergies, asthma, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease

Any metal in your body

Claustrophobia

Kidney problems

Pregnancy - known or possible

Previous reactions to MRI contrast

Recent chemotherapy (within 30 days)

What happens during my exam?

An IV will be started in your arm. You will be asked to drink an oral contrast material (VoLumen) that disttends and improves visualization of the small bowel. It is important to drink the full amount of contrast in the allotted time for optimal imaging.

For the exam, you will be positioned on your back on a cushioned CT scanner table with your arms resting above your head. Contrast material will be injected through the IV line that was placed earlier. The scanner will make slight buzzing, clicking and whirling sounds as it captures the images. To ensure the best quality images, you will be asked to remain as still as possible during the exam.

What happens after my exam?

Your images will be interpreted by one of our board-certified radiologists. The findings will be sent to your healthcare provider who will then contact you to discuss the results.

You may resume regular activities immediately after your exam.

It is important to note that some patients experience loose stools after the exam. This is normal and is a result of the VoLumen.